Aminosalicylates and aspirin for colonic cancer: From anti-inflammatory toantineoplastic drugs?

The aim of this article is to review potential antineoplastic properties of antiinflammatory compounds commonly used in various inflammatory diseases such as aminosalicylates, aspirin and other nonsteroidal drugs. Starting fr om experimental and epidemiologic evidence showing prophylaxis and/or tumor regression/suppression, specific antineoplastic actions especially the inh ibition of cyclooxygenase-(COX)dependent and COX-independent steps includin g the role of transscription factor (NFkB) in the cell cycle regulation are reviewed. In addition other mechanisms by which these drugs may exert anti tumor effects, also may be important such as induction of apoptosis of canc er cells and/or inhibition of potentially carcinogenic oxidative DNA damage . Based on this knowledge potential clinical implications are discussed.